Information on the Citizen Domes and
the Science world of Proton, from the Piers Anthony novel Split
Infinity.

Proton

Proton is only one planet in a galaxy of human-habited worlds.
Most of the atmosphere of the planet has been destroyed through the
mining of Protonite, a valuable energy source, and the
inhabitants of Proton live in domed cities with artificial life
support.

The world of Proton is based on science and is a highly technical
world. Proton is barren and outdoors is almost unlivable
from mining of the energy mineral Protonite. Protonite is used
throughout the galaxy as an energy source and is exceedingly
valuable.

Inhabitants of Proton are either a Citizen or a serf. Citizens
govern Proton. Everyone lives in self-contained domes with
artificial life support because the the extensive mining of
Protonite has ruined the environment.

Despite its advanced science, Proton's socioeconomic scheme
somewhat resembles the medieval
period. The planet is run by fabulously wealthy Citizens but
the bulk of the inhabitants are serfs.
Serfs must be employed by a Citizen and remain naked at all times
unless ordered otherwise by a Citizen. A Citizen has complete
authority of his serfs and may order them to do anything he desires.
Serfs, however, are not slaves; the serfs of Proton have all chosen
serfdom as their occupation (or are descended from those who have).
After twenty years of work, a serf earns a gram of Protonite, and
his retirement. While a paltry sum on Proton itself, this is enough
to make the former serf comfortably wealthy elsewhere in the galaxy.
Even then many serfs would choose to stay on Proton after their
twenty years are up, but it is not permitted in most circumstances.

In addition to the Citizens and serfs, Proton is home to advanced
robots, some of which are self-aware and possess their own free
will. As the series opens it is not common knowledge that some
robots are self-willed. Humanity has also made contact with
alien species, some members of which make their homes on Proton as
well.